The Toronto Blue Jays might be taking a risky gamble with Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who is just one year away from free agency and could command a contract similar to Juan Soto’s record-breaking deal worth $765 million. Fortunately for the Blue Jays, Guerrero Jr. has expressed interest in signing a long-term extension before hitting the market. According to the star first baseman, he is “ready to go” on a deal, but as always, money will be the sticking point. Guerrero Jr.’s representatives likely have their eyes set on a contract in the $500 million range, especially after Soto’s blockbuster deal.
At just 25 years old and coming off an impressive 6.4 WAR season, Guerrero Jr. is one of the most elite hitters in baseball. In a larger American market, he could easily become a household name. However, if the Blue Jays fail to secure an extension, the battle to retain Guerrero Jr. could intensify, especially with the deep-pocketed New York Yankees and New York Mets likely in the mix.
The Yankees, who are still looking for long-term solutions at both first and third base, are expected to be a major player in the Guerrero Jr. sweepstakes. After losing out on Soto, they have ample financial flexibility and could easily afford to land the talented slugger when he becomes a free agent next year.
As for the Mets, with owner Steve Cohen’s virtually unlimited financial resources, they too could be a strong contender for Guerrero Jr.’s services. Cohen has already shown he’s willing to spend lavishly, and with Guerrero Jr. and Soto being close friends, it’s easy to envision them teaming up in New York, especially considering they nearly played together for the Dominican Republic at the World Baseball Classic before Guerrero Jr. was sidelined by injury.
Ultimately, a bidding war between New York’s two powerhouses seems more likely than Guerrero Jr. agreeing to an extension with the Blue Jays before reaching free agency. Given the potential earnings at stake, it would be difficult for Guerrero Jr. to turn down the kind of offers that would come his way. The Blue Jays face an uphill battle to lock down their star, and it will likely all come down to their efforts this winter.
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